RP
Retire in Portugal
Modern hospital facility in Portugal

Healthcare in Portugal for Expat Retirees

Everything you need to know about accessing high-quality, affordable healthcare as a retiree in Portugal

Portugal's healthcare system consistently ranks among the best in Europe, offering retirees high-quality care at a fraction of the cost found in the United States and other countries.

For many international retirees, the excellent healthcare system is a key reason for choosing Portugal. The country offers a unique combination of modern medical facilities, highly trained professionals, and remarkably affordable care.

Portugal's Healthcare Rankings

Portugal's healthcare system has received international recognition:

  • Ranked 12th best healthcare system globally by the World Health Organization
  • Higher ranking than the United States, Canada, and many European countries
  • Among the world's best in terms of quality-to-cost ratio
  • Particularly strong in preventive care and maternal health

Understanding Portugal's Two-Tier Healthcare System

Portugal has a comprehensive two-tier healthcare system consisting of:

Public Healthcare (SNS)

  • Coverage: Universal for all legal residents
  • Cost: Mostly free or low co-payments (€4-20 per service)
  • Access: Through health centers and public hospitals
  • Strengths: Comprehensive coverage, emergency care, serious conditions
  • Limitations: Possible wait times for non-urgent procedures, fewer English-speaking staff outside major cities

Private Healthcare

  • Coverage: Based on your insurance plan or out-of-pocket payment
  • Cost: Insurance premiums (€50-150/month) or direct payment
  • Access: Private hospitals, clinics, and specialist networks
  • Strengths: Shorter wait times, more English speakers, private rooms, often more modern facilities
  • Limitations: Additional cost, though still very affordable compared to US healthcare

Many expats choose a hybrid approach, using the public system for emergencies and serious conditions while relying on private insurance for day-to-day healthcare, specialist visits, and elective procedures.

Healthcare Options for Retirees in Portugal

As a retiree in Portugal, you have several options for healthcare coverage:

1. Public Healthcare (SNS)

Once you become a legal resident of Portugal, you're entitled to access the public healthcare system. To register:

  1. Obtain your residence permit
  2. Register with Social Security to get a Social Security number
  3. Register at your local health center (Centro de Saúde) with your residence permit and Social Security number
  4. You'll be assigned a family doctor and receive a user number (Número de Utente)

The public system provides comprehensive care with small co-payments for services. Emergency care is always provided regardless of registration status.

2. Private Health Insurance

Many retirees opt for private health insurance for faster access and more English-speaking options. Popular providers include:

  • Médis - Well-established with a large network of providers
  • Multicare - Extensive coverage and good senior options
  • AdvanceCare - Comprehensive plans with good value
  • Allianz - International coverage options
  • Cigna - Global coverage for those who travel frequently

Monthly premiums typically range from €50-150 per person, depending on age, coverage level, and deductible options.

3. International Health Insurance

If you plan to split your time between Portugal and other countries, international health insurance may be appropriate. Companies like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and Bupa offer plans with worldwide coverage (excluding or limiting US coverage). These plans are more expensive but provide coverage while traveling.

4. Pay-As-You-Go (Self-Insurance)

Some retirees with substantial savings opt to pay for private healthcare directly without insurance, given the relatively low costs of medical services in Portugal. This approach works best for those in good health with a financial cushion for unexpected medical needs.

Special Note for UK Citizens

If you're a UK pensioner, you may be eligible for an S1 form from the UK, which allows you to receive Portuguese public healthcare while the UK covers the cost. Contact the UK's Overseas Healthcare Services to determine your eligibility before moving.

Comparing Health Insurance: Portugal vs. USA

Health Insurance Comparison

How health insurance options in Portugal compare to the United States

Category Portugal United States Notes
Coverage Type Comprehensive & Hospital-only plans Complex network & plan types Simpler options in Portugal
Monthly Premium (60-year-old) €75-150 $400-800 Significant savings in Portugal
Deductibles €0-500 annually $500-5,000+ annually Much lower in Portugal
Pre-existing Conditions Waiting periods or exclusions Often denied coverage or high premiums More manageable in Portugal
Prescription Medications Often covered (co-pay model) Complex coverage with high co-pays Medications much cheaper in Portugal regardless
Dental/Vision Usually add-ons Usually separate policies Similar approach, but lower costs in Portugal

Healthcare Costs in Portugal

One of the most attractive aspects of Portuguese healthcare for retirees is the affordability:

Public Healthcare Costs

  • Primary care consultation: €4-7
  • Specialist consultation: €7-20
  • Emergency room visit: €14-20
  • Hospital admission: €20-50 per day
  • Diagnostic tests: €1-20, depending on type

Many seniors and low-income residents qualify for reduced fees or exemptions.

Private Healthcare Costs (Without Insurance)

  • Primary care consultation: €50-80
  • Specialist consultation: €80-150
  • Emergency room visit (private hospital): €100-250
  • MRI scan: €200-350
  • CT scan: €120-250
  • Dental cleaning: €30-70
  • Hospital room (daily rate): €150-300

Even when paying out of pocket, these prices are a fraction of similar services in the United States.

Finding English-Speaking Doctors in Portugal

Finding English-speaking healthcare providers is relatively easy in Portugal, especially in:

  • Major cities - Lisbon and Porto have numerous English-speaking doctors
  • Tourist and expat areas - The Algarve and Cascais have facilities catering to international patients
  • Private hospital networks - Hospital da Luz, CUF, and Lusíadas often have English-speaking staff

Resources for finding English-speaking healthcare providers include:

  • Your private health insurance provider's directory
  • Local expat groups and forums
  • International patient offices at major hospitals
  • The US Embassy's medical resources list
  • Online platforms like Top Doctors Portugal

Prescription Medications in Portugal

Prescription medications in Portugal are generally much more affordable than in the United States:

  • The government subsidizes many medications through the SNS
  • Co-payment levels range from 15% to 90% of the cost
  • Even without subsidies, prices are typically 20-70% lower than US prices
  • Generic medications are widely available and encouraged
  • Some medications require new prescriptions from Portuguese doctors

Pharmacies (farmácias) are widely available throughout Portugal, with at least one pharmacy in each municipality operating on a 24/7 rotation basis for emergencies.

Prescription Transfer Warning

Bring a several-month supply of your current medications when moving to Portugal, along with your medical history and current prescriptions (with generic names). While most common medications are available in Portugal, brand names may differ, and some specialized medications might require special ordering.

Healthcare for Specific Conditions

Portugal offers excellent care for various conditions common among retirees:

Cardiovascular Care

Portugal has excellent cardiology services, with specialized cardiac centers in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra. The public system handles emergency cardiac care very well, while private hospitals offer comprehensive preventive cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Diabetes Management

Diabetes care is well-integrated into both public and private systems. The SNS provides coverage for essential diabetes medications and supplies, often with significant subsidies. Regular check-ups and specialist care are readily available.

Orthopedic Services

For joint replacements and other orthopedic needs, Portugal offers high-quality care at a fraction of North American costs. Private hospitals often have minimal wait times for procedures like hip and knee replacements.

Cancer Treatment

Portugal has several specialized oncology centers with modern treatment protocols. The public system covers cancer treatments, though private insurance can provide faster access to certain therapies and specialists.

Regional Healthcare Considerations

Healthcare quality and accessibility vary across Portugal:

Region Healthcare Rating English Availability Notable Facilities
Lisbon ★★★★★ Excellent Hospital da Luz, CUF Descobertas, Santa Maria
Porto ★★★★★ Very Good Hospital São João, CUF Porto, Hospital da Luz Arrábida
Coimbra ★★★★★ Good Coimbra University Hospital (one of Portugal's best)
Algarve ★★★★☆ Excellent Hospital Particular do Algarve, Centro Hospitalar do Algarve
Silver Coast ★★★☆☆ Moderate Smaller local hospitals, access to Lisbon facilities
Central Portugal ★★★☆☆ Limited Regional hospitals; may require travel for specialists

For retirees with complex health conditions, proximity to major medical centers should be a consideration when choosing where to live in Portugal.

Healthcare Integration Tip

Within your first few months in Portugal, establish relationships with both a public sector family doctor (médico de família) and a private GP. This dual approach gives you the best of both systems and ensures continuity of care.

Healthcare FAQs for Retirees in Portugal

Common questions about accessing and navigating the Portuguese healthcare system

Do I need private health insurance as a retiree in Portugal?
While not strictly required after obtaining residency, private health insurance is highly recommended for retirees in Portugal. Legal residents can access the public healthcare system (SNS), but private insurance offers several advantages: faster access to specialists, private rooms, more English-speaking doctors, and shorter wait times for non-emergency procedures. Most retirees opt for a hybrid approach—using the public system for emergency care and serious conditions while relying on private insurance for day-to-day healthcare needs and specialist visits. Basic private health insurance for seniors typically costs €75-150 per month depending on age and coverage level.
Can I use Medicare in Portugal?
No, Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States, including in Portugal. American retirees moving to Portugal need alternative healthcare arrangements. Options include:
  • Purchasing private health insurance in Portugal
  • Participating in Portugal's public healthcare system (SNS) after obtaining residency
  • International health insurance plans that cover Portugal
Some American retirees maintain catastrophic Medicare coverage in the US (particularly if they return frequently) while using Portuguese healthcare for routine care. It's important to note that healthcare costs in Portugal are so much lower than in the US that many procedures can be paid out-of-pocket for less than Medicare co-pays would cost.
How do I access Portugal's public healthcare system as an expat retiree?
To access Portugal's National Health Service (SNS) as an expat retiree, follow these steps:
  1. Obtain legal residency in Portugal (typically through the D7 visa)
  2. Register with Social Security to get your Social Security number
  3. Register at your local health center (Centro de Saúde) with your residency permit and Social Security number
  4. You'll be assigned a family doctor and receive a user number (Número de Utente)
Once registered, you'll have the same access rights as Portuguese citizens, paying small fees for services (typically €4-20 per consultation). If you're from the UK and receiving a state pension, you may be eligible for an S1 form which allows you to register for Portuguese healthcare while the UK covers the costs.
What are the costs of typical medical procedures in Portugal compared to the US?
Medical procedures in Portugal are substantially cheaper than in the United States. Here are some typical cost comparisons (approximate):
  • Doctor's visit: €50-80 in Portugal vs. $150-300 in the US
  • Specialist consultation: €80-150 in Portugal vs. $200-500 in the US
  • Emergency room visit: €100-250 in Portugal vs. $1,000-3,000+ in the US
  • MRI scan: €200-350 in Portugal vs. $1,000-3,000 in the US
  • Hip replacement surgery: €8,000-12,000 in Portugal vs. $30,000-50,000 in the US
  • Dental cleaning: €30-70 in Portugal vs. $100-200 in the US
  • Prescription medications: Generally 20-70% cheaper in Portugal
These are private healthcare rates in Portugal. Through the public system, costs are even lower, with most services requiring only a small co-payment.
Are prescription medications expensive in Portugal?
Prescription medications in Portugal are significantly less expensive than in the United States and generally comparable to or slightly cheaper than in the UK and Canada. Portugal has a reference pricing system and strong generic medication programs that help control costs. The public healthcare system (SNS) subsidizes many medications, with patients paying a percentage based on the medication category (typically ranging from 15% to 90% coverage). Even when paying completely out-of-pocket at private pharmacies, prices are often 20-70% lower than US prices. For retirees with chronic conditions, the savings on prescription medications alone can be substantial—sometimes enough to offset other moving expenses.
What happens if I need emergency medical care while visiting Portugal before I have residency?
If you need emergency medical care while visiting Portugal before establishing residency, you have several options:
  • Travel Insurance: This is the recommended option for visitors. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage will typically cover emergency treatment.
  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC): UK and EU citizens can use their EHIC/GHIC cards for necessary public healthcare at the same cost as locals.
  • Self-Pay at Public Hospitals: Portugal will never deny emergency care. Non-residents can access emergency services at public hospitals and pay the non-resident rate, which, while higher than resident rates, is still much lower than in countries like the US.
  • Private Hospitals: You can access private hospitals directly, paying out-of-pocket or through travel insurance. Many private facilities have English-speaking staff and shorter wait times.
Always carry your insurance information and be aware that while emergency care is always available, non-emergency care might require upfront payment.
Portuguese coastal scene

Need Help Understanding Your Healthcare Options?

Our healthcare specialists can provide personalized guidance on the best insurance options and healthcare providers for your specific needs.

Speak with a Healthcare Specialist Download Healthcare Guide

Get Portugal Retirement Updates

Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news, visa updates, and exclusive insider tips for retiring in Portugal.

We respect your privacy. You can unsubscribe at any time.